Product Habits - The key to making great software

How To Become an Expert

Malcolm Gladwell popularized the theory that becoming an expert at something requires 10,000 hours of deliberate practice. While time may be a prerequisite, not everyone who dedicates that much time will become best-in-class at what they do. This article gives us a different framework for what it means to become an expert. It happens in three stages: apprentice, journeyman, and master. What do you want to become an expert in—and what stage are you at in the process?

Shiprocket's E-commerce Revolution

Here's an interesting idea: Early-stage product-market fit isn't an abstract concept, but rather, something that can be observed, measured, and amplified. At its best, PMF will have "N-of-1 outcomes," where a company is so successful that a whole market is created around the utility of the company's core product. This is a fascinating story about a company that might do just that. 

Problem Discovery for Calm SaaS Businesses

Most entrepreneurs spend their time thinking about solutions, but early on, it's worth focusing on truly understanding the problem you want to solve. The more precisely you can define what a problem is and isn't about, the more specific you can be in designing a solution for it. This will help you avoid the trap of trying to build something for too many people with too broad a set of problems. These guidelines will help you create a calm, thoughtful startup.

How to Build a Great Product Notification Experience

Product notifications are a double-edged sword. They are necessary for keeping your users engaged, but if executed poorly, you'll annoy them and potentially increase churn. This comprehensive guide covers everything from emails to push notifications to Slack messages and will help you build a best-in-class product notification experience. It's a must-read.

Why Now?

When building a company, there are so many variables that impact your likelihood of success. One that we acknowledge but rarely dive into is the variable of timing. Why is now the right time to build your business? There are a dozen drivers you should consider before you keep building. Check out the complete list here. 

Transform How Your Marketing Team Operates

A lot of marketing teams spend too much time on busywork. Building a high-impact marketing team starts with writing a marketing brief that helps you get buy-in and alignment, and you shouldn't start a new marketing project until you complete one. If OKRs help you set goals, this framework will help you achieve them. 

Optimize Your Email Marketing Strategy

I remain bullish about email marketing, which still generates a higher ROI than any other marketing channel. Investing in email marketing allows you to control your message and end audience, but it takes considerable effort to get it right. These email marketing strategy tips will help you improve list engagement, increase conversions, and decrease unsubscribers.

Getting Ready To Move Upmarket

Moving upmarket can help you unlock new users and revenue streams. But getting it wrong can lead to a shorter runway and a loss of direction. Before making a move, clarify your product value framework and define your ideal customer. Then align your product roadmap and sales initiatives to ensure you can service your target customer well. Here's some food for thought.